The Trials and Tribulations of Ranked Joust in Smite: A Cautionary Tale

As a seasoned Smite player with countless hours spent battling gods and goddesses across various modes, I can’t help but share my thoughts on the recent tale spun by GhostOfAMartyr. Having dabbled in Ranked Joust myself, I must admit that the experience was more akin to herding cats than engaging in an adrenaline-fueled brawl. The careful dance of attrition felt less like a battle and more like a standoff straight out of an old Western flick.

For quite some time, Smite has been a battlefield for gods, and recently, an unexpected journey unfolded in the Ranked Joust mode. User GhostOfAMartyr recounted a nerve-wracking story of accidentally joining ranked Joust, assuming it would be a laid-back experience as they prepared to play a warrior in a ranked duel at an unusually late hour. However, they encountered a tense match where players primarily stared each other down, occasionally poking and prodding but avoiding major confrontations, much like the standoff scenes in old Western films. As the game prolonged, a surrender was called at the 15-minute mark, leading to numerous users commenting on their observations, expressing humor and annoyance regarding this particular game mode.

I just queued for Ranked Joust by accident…
byu/GhostOfAMartyr inSmite

Summary

Players express a mixture of frustration and humor regarding the cautious playstyle in ranked Joust.
Many believe ranked Joust is only enjoyable with a pre-made team, while others find it a test of patience.
The overall sentiment leans negative toward the ranked Joust experience, with numerous players advocating for more favorable casual modes.
Fellow players weighed in with their personal critiques of ranked Joust, advising others on the best strategies and approaches.

Expectations vs. Reality

In many cases, joining a ranked Joust game doesn’t deliver the action-packed battle players envision; instead, they find themselves in a long, grueling conflict often referred to as a ‘war of attrition’. User CharyDiff pointed out an intriguing observation about the calculated strategy that arises from understanding that one mistake could significantly shift the match’s outcome. This observation highlights the fact that ranked Joust can feel more like a siege than a chaotic free-for-all, offering a distinct gaming experience compared to what newcomers might anticipate. Numerous players have expressed frustration that in ranked Joust, the consequences of being aggressive are too severe, leading to games that feel agonizingly slow and monotonous. Exchanging attacks shifts from demonstrating skill to waiting for the opportune moment to exploit an opponent’s error.

Community Sentiment: A Mixed Bag

A large segment of the Smite community has voiced their dislike for the ranked Joust game mode, sparking interesting debates. For example, user OzymandiasTheII commented that “ranked party modes should have been eliminated from this game five years ago,” suggesting that many believe competitive enjoyment suffers in formats with an element of randomness. Although some players appreciate the camaraderie found in team matches, others prefer a more refined experience or even the removal of modes that don’t foster competition. Concurrently, Esley7 stated that they find ranked Joust enjoyable when they need a break from intense gameplay like Conquest. This dichotomy underscores the complex views on ranked Joust—does it primarily cater to a niche audience?

The Humor and Irony of Ranked Joust

GhostOfAMartyr’s post and the following comments present an unexpected twist: despite the annoyances encountered in ranked Joust, a sense of humor pervades the player base. This humor was vividly demonstrated by several comments that underscored the absurdity that can stem from such stagnation. For instance, Thyi_RA humorously described ranked Joust as “not a game mode; it actually is a test for your patience.” The dry wit didn’t only fit this narrative; it underscores a community capable of finding amusement even in the least stimulating gaming moments. The conversation in the comments, laced with sarcasm and sharp humor, reflects the spirit of the community, revealing that while some find the slow pace frustrating, others enjoy the shared hardships. Furthermore, as players critique and joke about their experiences, it fosters a stronger sense of camaraderie within the gaming community.

Strategies for Surviving Ranked Joust

<pFor those brave souls still willing to brave the treacherous waters of ranked Joust, strategies are essential. Player Swapzoar reminded others of the tactical nature of the mode, stating, “Poking wins games.” Here, the wisdom of patience and calculated decision-making is vital. The comments offered glimpses of valuable insights and innovative tactics shared by veterans. Players emphasize that positioning, timing, and map awareness become central to success. Exactly how one plays can make or break the match, ensuring that those who do approach ranked Joust with intention and strategy can earn both respect and victories. The acknowledgment of team compositions and clear communication are crucial reminders of how to elevate the experience, both personally and for teammates. Whether queuing up with friends or flying solo, jamming information and being prepared can lessen that soul-sucking feeling of being caught in endless poke games.

Finding Joy Beyond the Joust

In essence, whether you adore or dislike ranked Joust in Smite, it’s important to bear in mind that Smite offers a multitude of other game modes tailored for different playstyles. For some, the stress-free environment of casual play is a welcome relief from the intensity of ranked games. User PeaNought underscores the importance of playing with friends rather than strangers from the community, reinforcing the idea that camaraderie can turn an otherwise challenging match into a enjoyable experience. The allure of Smite lies in its variety of game modes – whether you’re drawn to the competitive nature of ranked, the excitement of casual games, or the pandemonium of Assault and Arena, there’s something for every player. As emotions run high and laughter erupts after matches like the one shared by GhostOfAMartyr, it’s the variety of experiences that keep players coming back to the battlefield. Smite is always evolving, and regardless of the mode, players stay committed to creating memorable moments, regardless of the result.

2024-12-16 15:29